"Dealing with issues around immigration is made all the more difficult by the fact that we have two jurisdictions on this island.

"Much of the legislation used here in the North comes from Westminster which complicated the matter even further.

"Our MLAs are often frustrated in their efforts to lobby on behalf of constituents on immigration issues as the British Home Office will only deal with MPs.

"The British Home Office has developed a working relationship with the Justice Department in the 26 Counties and that is to be welcomed. However, we should be able to deal with immigration on an all-Ireland basis.

"I am also concerned about the numbers of people being returned to the south where they seem to be at a greater risk of deportation.

"Those who are allowed to remain here often face problems as they are not allowed to work while their claim for asylum is being processed, or during an appeal if their application is unsuccessful.